Here’s a bold statement: the voice of Milwaukee’s Black community is about to enter a new chapter—and it’s sparking both hope and questions. Civic Media has acquired WNOV and The Milwaukee Courier, two iconic institutions that have been pillars of information and empowerment for decades. But here’s where it gets controversial: as these platforms transition to new ownership, will their legacy of truth, integrity, and community service remain intact? Let’s dive in.
Civic Media is taking the reins of Black Talk/Gospel 860 WNOV (https://wnov860.com/) and its FM translator 106.5 W293CX, along with The Milwaukee Courier (https://milwaukeecourieronline.com/), the weekly newspaper that has been a trusted source since 1964. The radio station, which began broadcasting in 1972, and the newspaper are being purchased from Courier Communications Corporation, led by Mary Ellen Jones. While the financial details remain undisclosed, the transition officially begins on January 1.
And this is the part most people miss: the Jones family isn’t stepping away entirely. Mary Ellen Jones will serve as a consultant to Civic Media, ensuring a bridge between the past and the future. Jerrel Jones Jr. will assist with the newspaper’s transition, and Dr. Robert ‘Biko’ Baker—a key figure in Milwaukee’s media landscape—will step in as Operations Manager for both the station and the newspaper. His mission? To expand journalism and programming that has long been a lifeline for Milwaukee’s Black community.
The emotional weight of this transition is palpable. Mary Ellen Jones reflected, ‘My parents built The Milwaukee Courier and WNOV to give Milwaukee’s Black community a voice when few existed. Passing that responsibility forward was not taken lightly. Civic Media is committed to honoring that legacy while investing in the future of trusted media.’ Her mother, Earnestine Jones, added, ‘When Jerrel and I founded these institutions, we believed accurate information is powerful and our voices matter. As we pass the torch, we trust Civic Media to grow this mission while staying rooted in truth and integrity.’
Jerrel Jones Jr. emphasized the personal and communal significance: ‘These institutions have shaped my career and strengthened Milwaukee. It matters deeply that they continue to inform, uplift, and serve with integrity. Civic Media has shown genuine respect for my parents’ legacy and a thoughtful commitment to advancing it.’
Here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Civic Media CEO Sage Weil acknowledged the dual nature of this acquisition—it’s both an opportunity and a responsibility. ‘These are trusted institutions with deep roots in Milwaukee,’ he said. ‘Our role is to steward that legacy while modernizing operations, expanding digital reach, and ensuring they continue to serve the community with integrity.’ Dr. Baker echoed this sentiment, calling it a ‘historic opportunity to keep these organizations engaged with the community—exactly the vision Mr. Jones had in mind.’
Civic Media Regional President Chris Moreau reinforced the company’s commitment: ‘We’re proud to continue WNOV’s legacy and provide the resources to serve Milwaukee through broadcast, digital, and print media.’
With this acquisition, WNOV and The Courier join Civic Media’s Milwaukee portfolio, which already includes Liberal Talk 540 WAUK (https://waukradio.com/) and its translators, Full Service Oldies 1400 WRJN (https://wrjn.com/) and its simulcasts, and 1290 WZTI with its FM translator. But the real question remains: Can Civic Media truly honor the Jones family’s legacy while adapting to the demands of modern media?
What do you think? Is this a step forward for Milwaukee’s Black community, or is there cause for concern? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this conversation going.
